Pest Control Systems Research Articles

Preventative insecticides reduce seedling injury, but do not increase yield in Bt and non-Bt corn grown in the mid-Atlantic.

Field corn production systems rely on preventative insect management tactics, including hybrids expressing plant-incorporated protectants that are treated with neonicotinoid seed treatments and sometimes in-furrow pyrethroids. While effective seedling pest control can be crucial because of the cost of replanting, these treatments target many of the same pests and may add unnecessary costs for growers. Furthermore, seedling pests in the Mid-Atlantic tend to be sporadic, and preventative insecticides may negatively impact natural enemies. To better understand the value of common preventative tactics, we evaluated pest pressure and compared a neonicotinoid seed treatment (clothianidin) and an in-furrow pyrethroid (bifenthrin) in Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and non-Bt corn hybrids. In Bt hybrids, the in-furrow pyrethroid did not decrease pest injury, increase stand, or increase yield, while the neonicotinoid seed treatment decreased pest injury and increased stand but did not increase yield. In a non-Bt hybrid, both insecticides decreased pest injury, but neither increased stand or yield. Above- and below-ground pest injury was scarce throughout the study, but even in the site-year with the most extensive injury, insecticides did not result in yield gains. Implementing efficient economically and environmentally sustainable corn pest management requires a thorough understanding of the contributions of each component of the pest control system. By thoroughly exploring pest pressure in Bt and non-Bt systems, this study shows that preventative insecticide use could be scaled back in many cases, especially given the environmental and economic costs associated with them. © 2025 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Mycosynthesis of chitosan-selenium nanocomposite and its activity as an insecticide against the cotton leafworm Spodoptera littoralis.

The cotton leafworm, Spodoptra littoralis, causes great damage to cotton crops. A new, safer method than insecticide is necessary for its control. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are metalloid nanomaterial, with extensive biological activities. They have low toxicity and can be used safely in plant disease management. In this study, we successfully bio-fabricated selenium nanoparticles and chitosan-selenium nanocomposite (Ch-SeNPs) using a fungal cell-free filtrate of Penicillium griseofulvum. The biosynthesized nanomaterials were initially detected optically by the formation of a red color in the solution mixture and the appearance of a strong plasmon resonance peak at 240-300nm. The biosynthesized nanomaterials were fully characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, energy dispersive X-ray, inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared. We tested the anti-insect activities of SeNPs, and Ch-SeNPs against larvae of S. littoralis compared to spore suspensions of P. griseofulvum. The results indicated that Ch-SeNPs followed by SeNPs gave a significantly higher mortality percentage than the spore suspension of the tested fungus. The highest production of all biosynthesized nanomaterials was detected after 7days at 40°C under alkaline conditions (pH 9). The average size diameter of SeNPs and Ch-SeNPs were 91.25 and 67.41nm with zeta potential - 8.05 and + 41mV, respectively. Both Ch-SeNPs and SeNPs gave high mortality rates and low values of LC50 and LC90 for both larvae and pupae. Ch-SeNPs showed stronger activity against S. littoralis than SeNPs and spore suspension at all experimental conditions. Cytotoxicity experiments indicated their safety against honeybee populations. The current study reveals the significant ultrastructure impact of SeNPs on larvae. These findings suggest that selenium nanoparticles and nanocomposite can be fabricated with a costless easy route using fungal filtrate, and they can be used safely in pest control systems that are safe for honeybee populations. It is the first report about the application of Ch-SeNPs as an anti-insect agent.

Pathogens of Plant Diseases in Osh City and Their Connection with Climatic Conditions of Kyrgyzstan

The article discusses the issues of improving the environmental situation, creating a favorable environment for health and, therefore, the need to combat plant pathology in large cities of Kyrgyzstan. Methods of increasing sustainability are analyzed and recommendations for improving the efficiency of the urban green space system are proposed. Based on this, the purpose of the work is to study the possibilities of improving the ecological condition of cities in modern conditions by controlling pests of urban plants. During the research, methods of qualitative identification and analysis of pests of urban plants were used. The information and empirical base of the study was our own laboratory research data. The scientific novelty lies in the identification and identification of pests of planted woody, shrubby and ornamental plants in Osh city. Based on the analysis of pests of planted woody, shrubby and ornamental plants in the city of Osh, it is proposed to strengthen control and research in the field of phytopathology to improve the urban environment by greening urban areas with resistant species to the identified pathologies of woody, shrubby and ornamental plant species. The necessity of forming a pest control system for plants and protecting the ecology of cities is substantiated. As a result of the study, the main types of pests of planted woody, shrubby and ornamental plants in urban areas of Osh were identified.

Innovations in Insect Phototaxis Research and Its Emerging Applications in Pest Management

Insect phototaxis, the movement of insects in response to light, plays a critical role in various behavioral patterns, such as foraging, mating, and migration. Recent advances in phototaxis research have opened new avenues for developing sustainable pest management strategies. This paper reviews the latest innovations in insect phototaxis studies, highlighting key breakthroughs in understanding the genetic, physiological, and environmental factors that influence light-driven behavior in various insect species. Particular attention is given to the use of artificial light traps, UV-based attractants, and the manipulation of phototactic responses to target agricultural pests. Emerging technologies, including the integration of phototaxis into automated pest control systems and the use of precision lighting in greenhouses, are discussed for their potential to revolutionize pest management. These methods offer promising alternatives to conventional chemical pesticides, minimizing environmental harm while improving the efficacy of pest control. The paper also explores challenges such as insect light adaptation and resistance, proposing future research directions to address these limitations. Overall, innovations in insect phototaxis present a significant opportunity for enhancing sustainable agriculture and integrated pest management systems by leveraging natural behavioral responses to light.

Food handling practices and sanitary conditions of charitable food assistance programs in eThekwini District, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Unsafe food handling practices by food handlers have dire health and financial implications worldwide. Each year, approximately 600 million people, or about 1 in 10 people, are said to become ill from eating contaminated food, and 420,000 people inadvertently die. According to the 2019 World Bank report on the economic burden of foodborne diseases, the annual cost of treating foodborne illnesses is estimated to be US$ 15 billion, and the total productivity loss caused by foodborne diseases in low- and middle-income countries is estimated to be US$ 95.2 billion annually. The purpose of this study was to assess the food handling practices and sanitary conditions of the charitable food assistance programs (CFAPs) in the eThekwini District of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 196 CFAPs in eight study settings across five municipal planning regions (MPRs) of the eThekwini District between January 2021 and May 2021. Data were collected using a standardized 37-item observational checklist and analysed through Stata Statistical Software (TX: StataCorp. 2021 LLC.: Release 17. College Station). Compliance levels were calculated using the compliance score (C-score), whereby 0.0–0.20 (0–20%), 0.21–0.40 (21–40%), 0.41–0.60 (41–60%), 0.61–0.80 (61–80%), and 0.81–1.00 (81–100%) were determined as very poor, poor, average, good, and very good, respectively. Statistically significant associations were declared at p < 0.05. Compliance with food hygiene, storage, and packaging was very poor (C-score = 0.003), as were personal hygiene and staff facilities (C-score = 0.147), as well as product information/labelling (C-score = 0.003). Similarly, waste management and pest control systems (C-score = 0.203), compliance with health and hygiene education/training (C-score = 0.335), as well as use and maintenance of transport (C-score = 0.333), all scored ‘poor’. Only the design of premises and facilities had an average compliance score (C-score = 0.43). Given CFAPs’ role in mitigating the impact of poverty, their strict compliance with hygiene protocols is of utmost importance. Systems for identifying and correcting common noncompliance in CFAPs are required.

Implementation of Insect Pest Control Innovation with Raindrop Sensor using Solar Energy Source in Shallots Farming

Spodoptera exigua, commonly known as the beet armyworm, is a major pest affecting shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) plants, leading to significant damage and economic losses for farmers. Traditional pest control methods, such as manual caterpillar removal and pesticide application, have proven ineffective and costly. In response, this study aims to develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution by designing a pest control system powered by solar energy, equipped with high-voltage wires, UV lamps, and a raindrop sensor for automatic operation. The system works by converting solar energy into electrical power, which then supplies the pest control unit. The UV lamps attract moths, while the high-voltage wire eliminates them. A raindrop sensor is used to ensure the system operates efficiently by shutting off during rainfall. The method involved discussions with local farmers, design and assembly of the device, followed by field implementation and monitoring in shallot farms. The results show that the device successfully trapped between 40 to 80 moths per day, significantly reducing pest populations and lowering production costs for farmers, as the use of chemical pesticides was minimized. Additionally, the quality of shallot crops improved, leading to higher market value. The solar-powered pest control system is an effective, eco-friendly alternative for managing pest infestations in shallot farming. It offers a cost-efficient solution, reducing the need for pesticides while improving crop quality and yield.

The Role of Diversity in Agronomy and Shaping the Future of Sustainable Agriculture

Diversity plays a critical role in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture, offering solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, resource depletion, and the growing global population. In agronomy, biodiversity—ranging from plant species to soil microorganisms—enhances ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling, pest control, and pollination, fostering healthy and resilient agricultural systems. This article explores the importance of biodiversity in agronomy, focusing on its role in improving soil health, reducing pests and diseases, and supporting sustainable farming practices, the article examines how diverse farming approaches such as agroecology, agroforestry, crop diversification, and conservation tillage can enhance resilience, stability, and productivity in the face of environmental stresses. The economic benefits of agricultural diversity, including risk reduction, market stability, and increased yields, are also discussed. Through the integration of diverse agricultural practices, farmers can create more sustainable and profitable systems, ensuring long-term food security.

Wheat companion plants reduced aphid and flea beetle infestations in Brassica vegetable crops in a multiple-year field study in central Germany

Alternative pest control systems such as companion plants are increasingly gaining importance owing to a reduced range of available synthetic insecticides and more rigorous regulation of their use in the EU. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of Brassica vegetables grown with wheat companion plants on relevant pests, respective natural enemies and harvest weight. Six trials were conducted in white cabbage and three in Chinese cabbage between 2017 and 2021. We identified an overall aphid-regulating effect for Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) and Myzus persicae (Sulz.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in white cabbage and a regulating effect on flea beetles (Phyllotreta spp.) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in both tested Brassica crops. Feeding by cabbage root fly Delia radicum L. (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) larvae on white cabbage roots was not consistently affected. Natural enemies including ladybirds (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), hoverfly larvae (Diptera: Syrphidae), spiders (Araneida), ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae), and rove beetles (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) were assessed on crop plants or in pitfall traps. The activity density of rove beetles was increased by wheat companions in both Brassica crops, while that of ground beetles was reduced in white cabbage. The weight of harvested white cabbage was reduced by wheat companions, varying between a mean reduction of 7.67% and 40.08% in different experiments. In conclusion, wheat companion plants can be an additional tool for regulating pests in Brassica vegetables. However, competition effects on crop yield and the compatibility with other cultivation aspects, e.g. crop rotation, have to be considered.

Structural characterization of silver nanoparticles produced by biogenic synthesis using SAXS

Nanotechnology applied to the agricultural sector has highlighted in recent decades, making important contributions, including systems for pest control as biogenic nanoparticles. These nanoparticles are used to control phytopathogens, demonstrating the need to understand its composition, mechanisms of action and toxicity. Their capping of biomolecules, derived from the organism used in the synthesis, contributes to their stability and biological activity. Ag nanoparticles were produced by the fungus Trichoderma harzianum in aqueous solutions containing silver nitrate as a precursor for the silver nanoparticles. Some of the samples were exposed to the phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum responsible for the white mold. After preparation, a fraction of the samples was submitted to physico-chemical processes to remove organic cap layer on nanoparticles surface formed during the preparation process. In this study we determined the effect of the phytopathogenic fungus and cap removal process in the average radius, radius dispersion, number density of the nanoparticles using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), where we considered their almost spherical shape in aqueous solution obtained by the biogenic route. The SAXS data analyses suggest that the presence of the pathogenic fungus results in a diminution of number and total volume of Ag NPs without significant effects on average radius and radius dispersion. Our results also indicate that the physic-chemical process to remove the organic cap surrounding the Ag NPs leads to a decrease in the fraction of the smaller nanoparticles.

Simultaneous use of Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus subtilis-based biopesticides contributed to dual control of Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) and tomato powdery mildew without antagonistic interactions

BackgroundImplementing pest and disease control techniques that have low environmental impact is important for sustainable agriculture. Microbial biopesticides are an effective approach due to their low environmental impact and low risk of resistance development. Because it is not usually possible to control multiple pests and diseases with a single microbial biopesticide, it is essential to investigate the potential for combining microbial biopesticides with varying control spectrums effectively. Many biopesticides have antimicrobial activity and may therefore interact negatively in combination.ResultsThis study demonstrated that a mixture of Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus subtilis formulations proved potential for simultaneous control of greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood) and tomato powdery mildew (Oidium neolycopersici). Three greenhouse experiments were conducted to assess the efficacy of mixed and single-use treatments. A laboratory experiment comparing the insecticidal effect of each treatment was also conducted. In all greenhouse experiments, the combined treatment controlled the greenhouse whitefly (78.9–88.3%) and tomato powdery mildew (47.2–81.0%) compared to untreated controls, which was as well as each treatment alone. In some greenhouse and laboratory experiments, the mixed treatment showed an approximately 1.32 to 1.78 times higher insecticidal effect compared to single-use treatments. Regarding the control efficacy against the pest and disease, negative effects of microbial agents on each other were not observed.ConclusionsThese results demonstrated the effectiveness of concurrent use of two microbial pesticides examined on dual control of pest and disease and showed potential for improved control of certain pests. The knowledge of this work could suggest the possibility of more environmentally friendly pest control systems with the use of microbial pesticides.

Innovations and Future Trends in Storage Pest Management

Current innovations and future trends in storage pest management, with a specific focus on the Indian context. The critical role of effective pest management in agriculture and food security is underscored, considering its impact on economic stability and public health. It begins by detailing the challenges faced in storage pest management, including the variety of pests like insects and rodents, and the damage they inflict on stored agricultural products. It critiques the limitations of traditional pest management methods, particularly chemical control, and highlights emerging issues such as climate change effects and pesticide resistance. The core examines the latest innovations in storage pest management. Advanced chemical approaches like novel pesticides and controlled release formulations are discussed, alongside the rise of nanotechnology applications in pest control, including nano-pesticides and smart delivery systems. The emergence of biological control innovations, particularly new biocontrol agents, and genetic control strategies like the sterile insect technique, marks a significant shift towards more sustainable pest management methods. Additionally, It explores developments in physical and mechanical control methods, emphasizing improved storage facilities and environmental control techniques. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approaches are identified as a key future trend, promoting holistic and sustainable strategies, with case studies underscoring their success and practical application. It also addresses the vital role of policy and regulatory developments, considering the impact of global regulations and the importance of international cooperation and standards in shaping pest management practices in India. Ethical and environmental considerations form a crucial part of the discourse, focusing on the ecological impact of pest management and the balance between control measures and conservation efforts. It concludes with an examination of practical applications and case studies, providing insights into real-world challenges and the strategies employed to overcome them. Overall, It offers a thorough analysis of the state-of-the-art in storage pest management, highlighting the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and practicality. It aims to provide valuable guidance for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners in the field, contributing to the advancement of more effective, environmentally responsible, and sustainable pest management strategies in India.

Studies on major insect pests of cotton and farmer perceptions in the Ghugus area of District Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India

A crucial crop in the world, cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), is frequently harmed by pests and illnesses. Chemical pesticides are frequently effective, but repeated use of these chemicals often results in pests developing greater insecticide resistance, fewer natural enemies, less natural control, and a deteriorated ecosystem. It has been widely used to implement the integrated pest management (IPM) strategy, which heavily emphasizes biological control. The present piece of work was carried out from January 2022 to December 2022 at different sites in the vicinity of the Ghugus area in Chandrapur district. In all, 10 species of insect pests of cotton from 9 families and 3 orders were recorded. The knowledge, perceptions and practices of farmers growing cotton under different pest management regimes were analyzed. The methods used were open and semistructured interviews using questionnaire with groups and individuals. In general, farmers had a poor understanding of the key concepts underlying alternative pest control systems. Pest damage was considered important and farmers were eager to share their knowledge, perceptions and practices in pest management. This study provides the foundation for the creation of a learning platform for future.

Intelligent pest and disease control system for traditional Chinese medicine cultivation industry

Intelligent pest and disease control system for traditional Chinese medicine cultivation industry

Distributed and Analogous simulation framework for the control of pests and diseases in plants using IoT Technology

In contemporary society, agriculture is progressively embracing technological innovations called Precision Agriculture. The utilization of various pest control and disease management strategies is of considerable importance in the surveillance of plants. The current framework encounters multiple challenges. The pest control and disease surveillance system employs a solitary Graphical Processing Unit (GPU) to manage the diverse array of connected sensors. Hence, this paper proposes utilizing the Distributed and Analogous Simulation Framework (DASF) in conjunction with the Internet of Things (IoT) to address the issue of pest control and diseases in plants. The approach reduces the strain on a specific GPU, effectively allocates the computational tasks across all accessible GPUs concurrently, and ensures continuous data transmission to the dashboards even in the event of GPU malfunction. The implementation of this procedure is anticipated to result in a reduction in overall system performance. In the DASF multi-threading framework, the allocation of tasks to particular auxiliary cores is performed by each GPU unit. The execution of the different functions within this system is allocated among four levels: disease management, pest recognition and control, output operations, and input functions. The data is analyzed concurrently and managed in a proficient and regulated manner. The proposed system demonstrates a significant enhancement in performance measures, with a value of 99.05%.

On impulse control problems arising in automatization of pests control in greenhouses

The paper proposes a mathematical model based on a continuous dynamic system that formalizes the interaction of populations of a greenhouse agricultural insect pest and an entomophage acting as an agent of environmental control of the pest population in the framework of the concept of integrated pest management paradigm. The model parameters are identified based on experimental data obtained in laboratory conditions for the greenhouse system “cucumber — spider mite — acariphage mite”. For the proposed system, an impulse control problem that corresponds to the implementation of the pest population control using an entomophage is formulated, and the issues of the existence of solutions and their continuous dependence on control are investigated. Based on the studied control system, the issues of constructing cost-effective control strategies that allow implementing the mathematical software for automated pest control systems in greenhouses are discussed.

Counseling on Handling Fish Diseases Using Herbal Ingredients at Kakuluk Mesak Fisheries Vocational School, Belu Regency

The fish quality management policy in a fish pest and disease control system aims to protect the continuity of fish cultivation development businesses, produce fishery products that meet quality standards, and protect the sustainability of fish resources. One type of fish that can be cultivated is tilapia and catfish. The main challenge in cultivating them is the diseases and parasites that attack the fish. So far, tilapia disease treatment has used chemicals, which can pollute the environment and people who consume the fish. At the Kakuluk Mesak Fisheries Vocational School, Belu Regency, the use of herbal concoctions to prevent and treat diseases and parasites in tilapia and catfish is the right alternative. The aim of this service is to provide fish farmers with knowledge and skills about the benefits of herbal plants in treating fish diseases and parasites. Garlic, turmeric, betel and papaya leaves are herbal ingredients that can be used to prevent and treat diseases of tilapia and catfish. The methods used include providing instructions and outreach through the distribution of newspapers about fish farmers. The results of the activity showed that ninety percent of the participants understood the material provided, as shown by their responses to questions and their desire to apply what they knew. The conclusion from this service activity is that teachers and students are very interested in the use of herbs in treating diseases of tilapia and catfish.

Дератизація: сучасні підходи та практика впровадження

The article is devoted to the problem of regulating the number of rodents at food industry, public catering facilities, etc., where the vital activity of micromammals carries the risk of spreading infectious diseases, leads to contamination or damage of products and communication networks, causing significant economic losses. The article considers deratization as a component of the pest control system—control of harmful organisms, according to the global concept of food safety (HACCP). The main regulatory acts of Ukraine on this issue are presented. The scheme of organisation of rodent control on the example of one of the enterprises is considered in detail, which includes the construction of a three-level system of protection against rodents, which allows monitoring their population. This method of rodent control takes into account the requirements of the current legislation of Ukraine and European standards.

An open set model for pest identification

Agricultural pest identification is a prerequisite for increasing crop production and meeting global food demands. Generally, numerous phenotypic and genotypic features are widely utilized for species-level pest identification. However, the approaches are time-consuming and require expert knowledge in relevant fields. Numerous image-based machine learning (ML) models also exist to identify insect pests in agricultural fields. The models are significantly rely on a large, manually curated dataset and are close-set in nature. Our study aims to develop an open set pest identification approach by adding the capability of rejecting any irrelevant inputs. Tephritid fruit flies (Diptera:Tephritidae) are considered as an example since they are the most economically important agricultural pests worldwide. Images of the fruit flies were collected from a publicly available database and filtered to exclude uninformative images using a deep learning model (Inception-V3) and an unsupervised k-means clustering method. For the closed-set identification task, our EfficientNet-B2 model classified four major genera of notorious tephritid flies, namely, Anastrepha, Ceratitis, Rhagoletis, and Bactrocera with an accuracy of 89.65%. We further improvise our proposed model for open-set recognition tasks to leverage the identification beyond the trained datasets. The open set model achieved an overall accuracy of 86.48% and a macro F1-score of 94.44% on the four genera and an unknown class. Our proposed model can be a practical and effective pest identification tool for harmful fruit flies. In addition, the model is easy to implement with existing agricultural pest control systems in an open-world scenario.

Comparison of the Spray Effects of Air Induction Nozzles and Flat Fan Nozzles Installed on Agricultural Drones

Pest control is essential for increasing agricultural production. Agricultural drones with spraying systems for pest control have generated great interest among farmers. However, spraying systems installed on unmanned aerial vehicles, like any other sprayer, can cause damage to the environment due to drift of the agent. Air induction (AI) nozzles are known to produce less drift (e.g., larger spray drops) than other nozzles, but there is a lack of research analyzing their effectiveness in combination with drones. In this study, AI and flat fan nozzles were installed on drones to evaluate their spray and pest control performance. Aerial spraying was conducted on rice and soybeans to measure the coverage and penetration ratio and analyze the crop production as well as the crop damage due to pests and diseases. The drone flight was conducted at an altitude of 3 m and a velocity of 2 m/s. Spray droplets were collected using water-sensitive paper at two heights above the soil surface. The experiments showed that the crop coverage with the AI nozzle was 130% higher than that with the flat fan nozzle. The drift reduction of AI nozzles increased the coverage of spray droplets. But the difference in the penetration ratios, which is the ratio of agents to be delivered inside the crop, was not significant between the nozzles. Also, there was no significant difference in crop yield and pest control efficacy. Consequently, the performance of the AI nozzle did not show differences from that of the XR nozzle, except for coverage. However, the AI nozzle raised less drift, so it should be considered for use in aerial control.

Towards pest outbreak predictions: Are models supported by field monitoring the new hope?

Physiologically-based models are the core of Decision Support Systems (DSS) for insect pest and disease control in cultivated fields. However, the large-scale use of DSS remains scarce and limited, despite the continuous update and formulation of new models by the literature. The main reason behind this lack of real-world use relates to the purely descriptive approach of these models, which are usually validated a posteriori. The major limiting factors that preclude the use of these tools for prediction purposes are their dependence on time zero and initial abundance to start the simulations. In this study, we present a theoretical framework that includes field monitoring data as an active part of a pest population density model simulation, which helps to overcome these obstacles. More specifically, we propose the application of an estimator scheme in the form of an Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) to a revised physiologically-based model from the literature. In the paper, we carry out a preliminary test of the theoretical framework applied to the case of Drosophila suzukii. This case study shows that the dependence of the simulations on the initial conditions and time zero is strongly reduced by using the EKF. Overall, the outcome of this research indicates that an estimator scheme is a necessary step to move from description to prediction in the pest population modelling field.